As the crisp autumn air rolls in, I can’t help but feel a cozy warmth radiating from my kitchen. That familiar scent of pumpkin spice fills the room, and when my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies emerge from the oven, it feels like the perfect embrace of fall. These delightful cookies combine beloved s’mores flavors with a seasonal twist, wrapped in soft, chewy goodness. They are not only easy to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering—making them ideal for those cozy movie nights or festive celebrations. With their flexible ingredient options, you can get creative and adjust them to fit your pantry. So, are you ready to indulge in a cookie experience that beautifully marries the best of autumn and nostalgia? Let’s dive into this sweet adventure together!
Why are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies a must-try?
Irresistible Warmth: These cookies perfectly blend the cozy flavors of pumpkin and spices with classic s’mores elements, creating a delightful treat.
Easy to Customize: With flexible ingredient options, you can swap in healthier alternatives like using Healthy Carrot Cookies or even go gluten-free!
Chewy Goodness: Each bite offers a satisfying chewiness, enhanced by gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers.
Quick Recipe: In just about 30 minutes, you can have a fresh batch of cookies ready to share, making them perfect for unexpected gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike, especially during those cozy fall gatherings.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – The source of moisture and richness. You can also use salted butter; just reduce added salt by 1/4 teaspoon.
- Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor and moisture. If you’re in a pinch, granulated sugar works as a substitute.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps give structure. Feel free to replace it with all brown sugar for a richer taste.
- Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a natural sweetness. Ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin puree, not the pie filling.
- Egg – Binds the ingredients together and supports structure. For a vegan option, use a flax egg.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor. Maple syrup can be used as an interesting alternative.
- All-Purpose Flour – Defines the cookie’s structure. Substituting with gluten-free flour works wonderfully for gluten-free cookies.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture. You can swap it out for baking powder, adjusting amounts accordingly.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm, earthy autumn flavors. You can mix individual spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger as substitutes.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates flavors. You may omit it if you’re using salted butter.
For the S’mores Components
- Chocolate Chips – Provides decadent chocolate flavor and delightful texture. Feel free to use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for variation.
- Mini Marshmallows – Adds that unique gooeyness and sweetness. If you prefer them to hold their shape when baked, opt for non-melting vegan marshmallows.
- Graham Crackers – Contributes the classic s’mores crunch. You can omit these or use gluten-free graham crackers if preferred.
Optional Enhancements
- Orange Food Coloring (Optional) – Enriches the cookie’s pumpkin hue. This is entirely optional; add sparingly if desired.
Now that we have our ingredients prepped and ready, let’s transform your kitchen into a warm, inviting space after the oven buzzes! Get ready for cozy bites of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies that will wrap you in the essence of fall.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This is an essential first step for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, setting the stage for even baking and that perfect chewy texture.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This will help incorporate air into your dough, making your cookies airy yet chewy.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, add 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 beaten egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl. If you’re using food coloring, add a few drops at this stage. Mix until everything is well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. The mixture should look smooth and creamy, setting a delightful foundation for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This step ensures that your leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed. The dry ingredients should be combined thoroughly before gradually integrating them into the wet mixture.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures Carefully
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain a tender texture for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. Stop mixing once you can no longer see any flour; the dough may look a bit lumpy, and that’s perfectly fine.
Step 6: Add S’mores Components
Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips, 1 cup of mini marshmallows, and 1 cup of crushed graham crackers into your cookie dough. Make sure these delicious add-ins are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The combination of these elements truly embodies the essence of s’mores in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 7: Scoop Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You can add extra chocolate chips or marshmallows on top if you like, creating an even more tempting appearance. This spacing allows the cookies to spread without merging, ensuring they retain their individuality.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for approximately 12 to 14 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should be golden around the edges, while the centers will remain soft and puffy. This contrast is what makes your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies so inviting!
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period will help them set up, making them easier to transfer to a wire rack where they can cool completely. These steps culminate in delicious, chewy Pumpkin S’mores Cookies that you’re bound to love!
What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Baking these delightful cookies creates an inviting atmosphere that calls for a full cozy meal experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices perfectly, adding a cooling contrast to each chewy bite.
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Hot Chocolate: Delve into the rich flavors of a homemade hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for a sweet, indulgent pairing.
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Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: Their fluffy texture and warm cinnamon flavor echo the spices in the cookies, creating a delicious autumn duo to enjoy.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce on top of the cookies for an added layer of decadence that enhances their sweetness.
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Pecan Pie Milkshake: A creamy milkshake with hints of pecan brings a nutty twist, echoing the fall theme and delighting your taste buds.
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Fruit Salad: Fresh, seasonal fruits like apples and pears brighten the meal while providing a refreshing counter to the richness of the cookies.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices of a spiced chai latte beautifully meld with the cookie flavors, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances the cookies and adds a delightful sweetness reminiscent of fall mornings.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize your cookies with these delightful variations!
- Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a smoother flavor.
- Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg, and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly, including marshmallows.
- Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a safe alternative.
- Sneaky Veggie Boost: Swap half the pumpkin puree with mashed sweet potato or butternut squash for a unique twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for an unexpected burst of heat balanced by sweetness.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor profile.
- Flavor Infusion: Try using maple syrup instead of vanilla extract to infuse a rich, warm sweetness into your cookies.
- Marshmallow Variations: Use flavored marshmallows like caramel or pumpkin spice for an exciting twist on the traditional flavor.
Embrace these variations to create your perfect batch of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, and if you’re looking for other delicious cookie options, don’t forget to check out Chocolate Oat Cookies and Healthy Carrot Cookies. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Storage Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious softness.
Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. This can help preserve their texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 4 months. Place them in a freezer-friendly bag, making sure to remove excess air before sealing.
Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked taste, reheat your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven for a few minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance, simply chilling it in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. To do this, follow the first six steps of the recipe, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough onto a lined baking sheet and bake as directed. If you prefer, you can also freeze the formed cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; just let them thaw in the refrigerator the night before baking. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies on busy weeknights, delivering that cozy autumn flavor with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
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Avoid Overmixing: The key to perfectly soft Pumpkin S’mores Cookies is to mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter, egg, and pumpkin puree to come to room temperature. This helps create a well-emulsified dough for better texture.
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Perfectly Soft Centers: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking! They should look slightly underbaked in the center; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being taken out of the oven.
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Chill Your Dough (Optional): If time permits, chilling the dough for 30 minutes helps intensify the flavors and prevents spreading, yielding thicker cookies.
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Experiment with Mix-Ins: While chocolate chips and marshmallows are classic, feel free to add nuts or dried fruit for an additional layer of flavor in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! Be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor of your cookies. Look for cans labeled “pure pumpkin” for the best results.
How should I store Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and tasty, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the fridge, where they can stay good for up to a week. Just remember to give them a quick warm-up in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before enjoying!
Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Yes, you can! For best results, freeze your baked Pumpkin S’mores Cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing excess air, and store them for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds, and savor that fresh-baked goodness!
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread too much, it might be due to the dough being too warm or overmixing. To troubleshoot, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking, which can firm it up and prevent excessive spreading. Another option is to ensure you’re measuring flour accurately—too little flour can lead to flatter cookies.
Are these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
It’s important to be cautious! While the ingredients in Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are safe for most people, they contain sugar and chocolate, which are not suitable for pets. Ensure no one with allergies to common ingredients like gluten or eggs will consume them. You can easily cater to dietary restrictions by swapping out the egg for a flax egg and using gluten-free flour if needed.
How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Certainly! To make your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies dairy-free, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a non-dairy butter alternative or coconut oil. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips and vegan marshmallows for an entirely plant-based treat! Enjoy the cozy flavors without the dairy!
Pumpkin S'mores Cookies: Your Cozy Fall Flavor Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate the pumpkin puree, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a separate bowl, then gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers until evenly distributed.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, until golden around the edges but soft in the center.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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